MHAFC works to make taboos associated with candid discussions on mental health a thing of the past, Executive Director Sallie Morgan said. That includes addressing and treating mental health issues early.

Part of MHAFC's funds support a mental health specialist position for the Fauquier County Public Schools. The “Catching Kids in Crisis” campaign provides intervention for the at-risk students and their families, and offers training to school staff and to families on issues such as anxiety and depression.

The effort has helped 68 students and their families in the past year, Mrs. Morgan said. The school budget for next year includes significant funding for the position – a first for the county. The public funding coupled with MHAFC's contribution — made possible in part through the Arts Fusion event — will help the program expand.

“When we see tragic things happen on a national level, we say, ‘What could we have done? How can I protect my children? What can one person do?’ ” said Pam Burch, the Arts Fusion chairwoman.

“I think we answered that,” Mrs. Burch added. “One person can make a donation, and that money goes directly to a cause that’s changing lives in our community right now.”